Originally Posted by
Frank Petronio
Velvia 50 shot on a 4x5 is impressive -- But you might find that a 6x4.5cm digital back on a 4x5 is a huge pain in the ass (I think so). The scale of the film to the sensor size is so different that what is precise on a 4x5 scale is sloppy on the micro 6x4.5 scale.
You might do better getting a nice inexpensive 4x5 like the Shen, plus a top quality lens or two, and shoot only 4x5 film with that outfit. These packages sell for under $1500 and they hold their resale, unlike digital. Then you can see the differences between film and your DCB and decide what works best for the situations you want to photograph. You can always upgrade to an Ebony if you like 4x5.
If you insist on a 4x5 to also use for digital, then you really should be looking at compact cameras like the Linhof Technika 3000 (good for wide angles) and the Arca-Swiss F-series. Being a strong, precise metal cameras they are always going to be a more solid digital back platform than any of the wooden cameras, even the very nice Ebony.
If the image quality of the Leaf is satisfactory after you try 4x5 film, there are many other options for medium-format digital and film type cameras with shift, rise, and other view camera movements... search for Alpa, Silvestri, Cambo, and more. Many people use these along with their medium format SLR with their digital backs, especially with wider lenses.
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